SEOUL - SOUTH Korea's government on Sunday announced a US$2.2 billion (S$3.4 billion) plan to prop up the farm sector, which has been hit by a global economic slowdown and weak domestic consumption.

The agriculture ministry said the government would inject 3.25 trillion won into the sector next year to support food and agricultural businesses, bolster rural development and strengthen forestry resources.

South Korea has protected its rice market to support the farmers, allowing imports of only seven per cent of total consumption last year.

But farmers have called for larger state subsidies, as many are suffering from chronic debts due to a steady drop in the country's overall rice consumption. -- AFP